Luke Shaw over Kieran Trippier? Ex Premier League star admits England should stick to new formation

Gareth Southgate’s men have made hard work of their Euros campaign. Nevertheless, the Three Lions are just two wins away from lifting the Henri Delaunay trophy.

The England boss faces a number of tactical conundrums, including a personnel dilemma on the left back position.

Southgate switched his formation for the quarter-final win over Switzerland and former Premier League midfielder Robbie Savage believes that England should stick with it.

The ex Wales international is also adamant that Luke Shaw should get the nod ahead of Kieran Trippier for the semi-final clash with the Netherlands.

“I’d start Shaw on the left over Kieran Trippier because he’s got minutes under his belt now and he’s been training,” Savage told Planet Sport Bet.

“If Shaw plays against the Netherlands he can push Denzel Dumfries back, because we know Dumfries likes to attack.

“I thought the 3-4-2-1 formation worked for England against Switzerland, I’d stick with that.”

England are preparing for their third semi-final in four major tournaments as they continue their hunt for a first men’s trophy since 1966.

Savage believes the Three Lions will book their spot in the final, saying: “It is going to be a tough test against the Netherlands but I think England will win 2-1, potentially after extra time.

“Even if it goes to penalties, I’d fancy England to win it because of the quality of their penalty takers. 

“You can’t forget that the regular penalty taker, Harry Kane, wasn’t even on the pitch against Switzerland for the penalty shootout and England still won.

“Even if it went to the sixth or seventh penalty, England have great strength in depth when it comes to spot kicks.”